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Need recommendations for a Cartridge under $2K

Hi there ,
I have a VPI TNT Turntable , Clearaudio Universal Tonearm & an ageing Benz Micro cartridge ( forget which model ) , other equipment is ARC Phono 5 / LS 27 & Reference 150 with Wilson Sophia 2's . I want a new Cartridge but have a budget of $2000 maximum , I was considering the Talisman V2 or possibly a Dynavector or Ortofon as these are the 3 Brands my local Dealer sells . Would appreciate any / all feedback . Cheers .
chris_launder
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
Of your dealer carries these 3 brands, then why not audition the carts? In your home if possible.

And be sure to check compatibility of these carts with your tonearm's effective mass (easiest place to do this is Vinyl Engine cart database)
mr_m
1,087 posts
 
I would strongly suggest the Soundsmith Aida. ($1500). A true giant killer in my humble opinion.
fjn04
1,339 posts
 
The best sub 2K cartridge I have ever heard is the EMT tsd-15.
I have no idea how it would mate w/ your tonearm or phono stage. I have mine successfully mated to a Well Tempered Amadeus.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Lyra and Dynavector cartridges seem to mate well with VPI tables. So you probably can't go wrong with either the Delos or XX-2 mk II. Another good one that you may consider, though it's hard to demo is the ZYX Yatra.
chris_launder OP
58 posts
 
Thankyou everyone for your recommendations , I will see if the Delos is available locally , otherwise the Dynavector XX-2 looks like the one ... Cheers .
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